Wrestling at the Chase: The Inside Story of Sam Muchnick and the Legends of Professional Wrestling


Author, Ghost Writer, Editor: Larry Matysik
Publisher: ECW Press
Released: 6/05

The Good
Larry Matysik played a pivotal role in one of the most important pro-wrestling hotbeds - St. Louis. In this book, he tells his story, but of greater to interest to fans, he tells the story of St. Louis, Sam Muchnick (the promoter and president of the NWA) and the characters who came and went. I enjoyed the layout and Matysik's storytelling. It did feel a little like a wrestling magazine article at times, but it was usually captivating content. He did a good job explaining aspects of pro-wrestling that are seldom explored and I fully recommend this book to people interested in pre-80s wrestling and even some of the characters from WWF's national expansion days.

The Bad
For many people, they're wondering, who is Larry Matysik? I know he's a credible source, but do others? I think the format is a bit scattered for some and they might want more depth. Matysik certainly did not write a book where he built himself up and/or tore others down. He is honest and sincere and I think that might not peak many people's interest.

The Rating: ****